CARCHECKHQ BUYING ADVICE

The seller says they'll clear the finance. Should I still buy?

Not until the finance is settled and you can prove it.

If a car has outstanding finance, the finance company usually owns it until the agreement is paid. If the seller doesn't pay, the lender may try to recover the car.

Do not rely on a promise to settle an agreement after you pay. Confirm the agreement details and settlement process directly with the lender using independently verified contact details.

Ask for written confirmation from the lender that the agreement has been settled or for a lender-confirmed process before proceeding. Source records can take time to update; a report is not a settlement receipt.

If you have already bought the car, keep the advert, messages and receipt and seek advice. A finance finding does not by itself decide your legal rights; these depend on the agreement and circumstances of the purchase.

Use this guidance alongside the report coverage and limitations. See the sample vehicle report and report prices before choosing a check.

Further reading: GOV.UK checks when buying a used car.